Water Damage in Vermont Homes

— What to Do First (and What to Avoid)

Water damage can happen fast in Vermont—one frozen pipe, a sudden thaw, heavy rain, or a clogged drain can turn into soaked flooring, wet drywall, and hidden moisture inside walls. If you’re dealing with water damage, the first few hours matter most. A quick, smart response can reduce repairs, lower the risk of mold, and help protect your home’s structure. Quality Restoration serves the Greater Brattleboro area and towns within 40 miles with 24/7 emergency response and water damage restoration services.

Step 1: Stop the source (if it’s safe)

If the water damage is from plumbing—like a burst pipe or water overflow—shut off the water supply right away. If water is near outlets or electrical panels, avoid the area and shut off power if you can do it safely.

Step 2: Don’t assume “it’ll dry on its own”

Moisture spreads under flooring, behind baseboards, and into insulation. Even if the surface looks better in a day or two, trapped water can keep damaging materials and create the perfect conditions for mold. Professional restoration teams use moisture detection and inspections to find what you can’t see—tools like moisture sensors and infrared imaging are often used to locate hidden moisture.

Step 3: Document the damage for insurance

Take clear photos and videos of affected rooms, furniture, and the source of the water (when possible). Keep a simple list of damaged items and note when the event occurred. Quality Restoration also provides assistance with insurance needs and offers free inspections and estimates, which can help you move forward with confidence.

Step 4: Start the right drying process (not just fans)

Drying isn’t just about air movement. Proper water damage restoration typically includes water extraction, controlled dehumidification, and targeted drying to reach the materials that hold moisture. Quality Restoration is IICRC-certified, licensed, bonded, and insured—important qualifications when you need a restoration team to handle your property safely and correctly.